Erno Pretsch

Title: Innovations by Erno Pretsch in Ion-Selective Membrane Electrodes

Introduction

Erno Pretsch is a notable inventor based in Uetikon am See, Switzerland. He has made significant contributions to the field of ion-selective electrodes, particularly in environmental monitoring. His innovative approach has led to advancements that allow for the detection of heavy metal ions at unprecedented low levels.

Latest Patents

Erno Pretsch holds a patent for "Low detection limit ion selective membrane electrodes." This invention introduces a new type of ion-selective solvent polymeric or liquid membrane electrode. It extends the measuring range at the lower end by at least six orders of magnitude. The method utilizes membranes based on either a neutral ionophore, a charged ionophore, or an ion-exchanger. By maintaining a very low and constant concentration of the primary ion and a sufficiently high concentration of an interfering ion in the internal reference solution, low detection limits are achieved. This technique enables the use of ion-selective electrodes for environmental monitoring of heavy metal ions such as Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ at the submicromolar level.

Career Highlights

Erno Pretsch has been associated with Orion Research, Inc., where he has further developed his innovative ideas. His work has been instrumental in advancing the capabilities of ion-selective electrodes, making them more effective for environmental applications.

Collaborations

One of his notable collaborators is Tomasz Sokalski. Together, they have worked on enhancing the functionality and application of ion-selective electrodes.

Conclusion

Erno Pretsch's contributions to the field of ion-selective membrane electrodes represent a significant advancement in environmental monitoring technology. His innovative methods have opened new avenues for detecting heavy metal ions, showcasing the importance of his work in scientific research and practical applications.